Whatever Happened To These 6 Polite Gestures?

Make the world a gentler place, one gesture at a time.

It often seems like the world used to be a kinder place.

It's easy for adults of any age to look back at their childhood with a wistful sigh and think, "In my day, people had manners."

That kind of social nostalgia doesn't have to be elegiac, however. It can serve as an impetus to resurrect some of the things that used to be considered common courtesy. Take these six things, for example, and think about how implementing them into our daily lives might make the world a slightly kinder place.

1. Giving up your seat on public transportation.

This doesn't just include pregnant women, the elderly and people with disabilities. It also includes parents with small children, and people who've made bad footwear decisions for the rush hour commute home.

It's a simple gesture that can go a long way to make someone else's day a little bit brighter.

2. Hand writing thank you notes.

It takes very little time, but speaks volumes about one's character.

No, an email doesn't count.

3. Holding doors open.

Whether in elevators, stores, or restaurants, holding the door for the people behind you is just good manners.

4. Waiting until everyone is served before you start eating.

Don't touch that fork.

5. Introducing friends by name.

There can be horribly awkward moments when you're with a friend who runs into someone they know but you don't, and then doesn't introduce you.

Don't be that guy or girl. Just make a quick introduction: "This is my colleague/friend/neighbor/cousin/significant other, (NAME)."

6. Make eye contact with people you talk to.

Servers, bartenders, people you find wildly attractive — make eye contact. Just try not to be creepy about it.